Deformational Plagiocephaly is most commonly caused by keeping an infant's head in one position for long periods of time. This causes a flat spot in the skull to form. Sometimes, a baby is born with a flat spot because of a tight intrauterine environment (multiple births, small maternal pelvis or with a breech position).

Other factors which may increase the risk of deformational plagiocephaly include:

Muscular Torticollis: Muscular torticollis is when a baby is born with very tight neck muscles. This causes the head to tilt or turn in the same direction. Since the infant holds their head against the mattress in the same position repeatedly, a flat spot can form.

Prematurity: Premature infants are at a higher risk for plagiocephaly. This is because the cranial bones become stronger and harder in the last 10 weeks of pregnancy. Also, since many premature infants spend a long time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) on a respirator, their heads are maintained in a fixed position, increasing the risk.

Back Sleeping: Infants who sleep on their backs or in car seats without switching positions for a long time are also at a higher risk for deformational plagiocephaly.

Specific treatment will be determined by your child's doctor based on the severity of their condition. The first step is re-positioning. Alternating your infant's sleep position from the back to the sides, and not putting infants on their backs when they are awake, may help prevent and treat positional plagiocephaly. Some cases do not require any treatment and may go away when your baby begins to sit.

If the deformity is moderate to severe and re-positioning hasn’t worked, your child's doctor may recommend a cranial remodeling band or helmet.

How Does Helmeting Correct Deformational Plagiocephaly?

Helmets are made of a hard shell with a foam lining. Gentle, persistent pressure is applied to the skull. This helps stop growth in the normal areas and allows for growth in the flat areas. As the head grows, adjustments are made often. The helmet basically provides a tight, round space for the head to grow into.

How Long Will My Child Wear a Helmet?

The average treatment with a helmet is three to six months. This depends on the age of your baby and the severity of the condition. Careful and regular monitoring is required. Helmets must be prescribed by a licensed physician with craniofacial experience.